YREKA – Downtown Yreka will come alive with art this spring, summer and fall, as the chamber of commerce is busy planning for an electrifying 2013 Yreka Art Walk series that is sure to inspire and delight.

The Yreka Art Walk events will be held on the Fridays of May 17, June 21, Aug. 2, Sept. 13 and Oct. 25 from 5-8 p.m. on Miner and Broadway streets. The art walk events will coincide with Liberty Arts Gallery openings.

"In partnership with talented artists, local shops and Liberty Arts, our community will infuse downtown with gallery-inspired art, live music and appetizers as we celebrate the vibrant lifestyle and culture in Yreka," said Kory Hayden, executive director of the Yreka Chamber of Commerce.

Hayden stated that this year, the chamber's goal is to enhance the art walk by incorporating different art forms such as culinary arts and performing arts.

"That is what makes this year's development special," commented Hayden, adding that at some point she would like to incorporate healing arts into the festivities.

Each art walk will be unique as participating businesses on Miner and Broadway streets feature a fresh display of work created by local and regional artists who come from all walks of life. The business owners will offer refreshments and a warm welcome to all who stroll through their establishments.

A number of local musicians will entertain during the art walks, such as Rusty Miller, who will perform during each art walk in the Wine Gallery on Broadway; Gita Lloyd, who will perform during the opening art walk on May 17 in Bella Art Works; and the Bar Chords, who will perform at Shoppe Serendipity during the opening art walk event.

Event attendees may pick up an art walk map at the Yreka Chamber of Commerce, the Wine Gallery on Broadway or Surroundings. If art walk attendees wish to participate in a drawing for the chance to win a piece of art, they may have their maps punched by participating businesses and then drop the maps off at the chamber office. Winners will be notified by telephone.

The chamber invites community members to participate in its official art walk opening ceremony in front of the chamber office at 117 W. Miner St. at 5 p.m. on May 17. The chamber board members, signature artists and representatives from local galleries and shops will be there to meet and greet attendees.

"Yreka has so much to celebrate and be proud of. Miner and Broadway streets will serve as an excellent backdrop for our evenings of culture that enliven the downtown area and show that our art community is vibrant and connected," said Hayden. "We hope to see everyone out there for the kickoff to the series on May 17."

The Yreka Art Walk series began in 2010 as a result of a grassroots effort with chamber support. Its popularity and community participation has grown over the past two years, and Hayden said she is certain this year's series will continue to be spirited and well attended.

Page 2 of 2 - Anyone with questions about the Yreka Art Walk may call the Yreka Chamber of Commerce at 842-1649.